Soybean Varieties

Varieties of soybeans differ in maturity as much as corn varieties do, but they are classified by a different maturity system. The varieties that require the least heat to mature are placed in Group 00. In progressively warmer parts of our state, the appropriate maturities are Group 0, Group I, and Group II. Group II varieties mature dependably only in the warmer parts of upstate New York.

In the warmer regions of central and western New York, we recommend planting 60 percent to late (Group II) and 40 percent to medium (Group I) varieties with a May planting date. If planting occurs during the first 10 days of June, we recommend planting mostly Group I varieties. If planting is delayed to beyond June 10, we recommend planting Group 0 varieties in central and western New York.

In areas of northern New York next to the lakes, we recommend planting 30 percent of the acreage to Group II varieties and 70 percent to Group I varieties with a May planting date. Away from the lakes in northern New York, we recommend planting 70 percent of the acreage to Group I and 30 percent to Group 0 varieties. Do not plant Group II varieties close to the lakes or Group I varieties away from the lakes in northern New York after May 25-30. The varieties recommended in the tables in this section have been good performers at two of our test sites in central/western or northern New York.

Related Resources